This post hits close to home. I am a musician...it's what I do. There is only ONE thing that will solve every single problem that comes up: being in the moment.

You can't leave your mind free to wander past what you are currently playing. I had a hard time staying in the moment...and a sports psychologist gave me some shortcuts. Evidently, this plagues athletes, too.

You referred to an irritating anxiety. Well, this wouldn't be possible if you are able to "go to that happy place".

Have you tried TM??? That is pretty much all about getting into "the moment"..."the happy place"???